Essay Sample: My Values of Nehemiah’s Reconstruction

Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the king during 445 BC. After hearing of the distress of the Israelites and the destruction of the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah decided to travel to Jerusalem and rebuild the walls.

One thing I respect Nehemiah for, is when he took the initiative to travel to Jerusalem, he depended on God but he was also reasonable. First, he prayed to God for the difficulties of the Israelites then he asked for the permission of the King to travel to Jerusalem. I know it is good to have faith in God to see you through any situation, but there are also prime steps you can take to make something happen.

After Nehemiah surveyed the ruins of the walls, he called together the Jewish leaders. He declared that they would rebuild the walls and the Jewish leaders agreed. Nehemiah wanted the people to know that they were all doing this project together, this way people would want to join him. I think this is commendable because everyone wants to feel like they are necessary and important, and in large projects like this everybody has a part to play.

Opposition soon rose up against Nehemiah. They mocked the Jew’s efforts. Nehemiah did not let this discourage him or the people. He prayed to God over it then he set up protection in the city. He had half the workers carry weapons with them while they worked. Once again Nehemiah is trusting the Lord but still taking precautions and I think this is a good idea.

Nehemiah was appointed governor of Judah by the king, but he did not stop helping to build the wall. He did not lord over the people because of his position or act like he was better than any of them. In this way, Nehemiah showed himself to be a good leader.

Nehemiah’s story teaches us to be diligent and determined. Despite what threats or rumors were told about him he had set on the reconstruction of the walls of Jerusalem. All the people that were a part of Nehemiah’s project felt like a team. I believe if people could work together like this today, we could do almost anything. If people today weren’t always trying to trump over everyone and would humble themselves to realize we’re all in this together, there would be no discrimination or prejudice. People hated Nehemiah but he didn’t let that stop him and he encouraged the others to finish the project. We should support each other because life is difficult and we can't live it alone.

I admire Nehemiah’s leadership and how he orchestrated the project.